Growing up in Northern New York, it’s hard for me to imagine life without Stewart’s Shops. They are everywhere, and there was one along my morning commute for years. It’s the place to fuel up your car, but it’s more than a gas station. It is a place for coffee, ice cream, and hanging out with friends. Stewart’s Shops are an important staple in Upstate communities, and I'm thankful to have grown up around them.

1. Coffee, duh

The hot coffee is convenient, self-serve, and reasonably priced. It is always fresh and there are plenty of flavors. Don’t even get me started on the iced coffee. Stewart’s serves my absolute favorite iced coffee, and that’s saying something considering that I am a loyal customer of both Dunkin and Tim Horton’s. You’ll have to try it and see for yourself.

2. Convenient Food

Stewart’s has all your typical gas station snacks, along with fresh pizza, soup, pastries, and sandwiches. The breakfast sandwiches are my personal favorite. They also carry basic needs like milk and eggs.

3. Free air

Using the air pump is absolutely free at Stewart’s, as it should be. I’m so thankful that I don’t have to hoard quarters when my tires need air.

4. There’s always a sale

When you go to Stewarts you can always expect to find deals on something. Sundaes, milkshakes, coffee, hand-packed pints, you name it. Most of these are ice cream related sales, but isn’t that the best part?

5. The employees

I have always been treated with kindness by Stewart's employees. They get to know familiar faces and iced coffee orders, and they make an effort to brighten up a person's day.

6. They give back

Check out the Holiday Match Program, where customers can donate their change and Stewart’s will match the total donations. Every penny goes to local children’s charities.

7. It’s always ice cream season

Even when it gets cold outside, Stewart’s ice cream is a must-have. Growing up I remember going to Stewart’s for ice cream after every little league game and school concert. Make-your-own sundaes were and still are the best. They have plenty of unique, classic flavors like Crumbs Along the Mohawk and Heavenly Hash. Not to mention you can order a milkshake made with ANY of their flavors. That’s what freedom is all about.

Thank you Stewart’s Shops for being a part of my childhood and community.